Model History

In August 1983 the Mk1 Fiesta was replaced by the more rounded Mk2. The same basic bodyshell was used but given a new smoother front end and re-styled tailgate. As usual, Ford chose to hold back the sporty model until the normal range had made its mark on buyers, so no XR2 to be seen – except for sneak previews in the "Ford Sales Staff only" confidential literature that showed a black left-hand drive XR2.

The earliest UK Mk2 Fiesta XR2 models to be registered were part of the Ford press fleet in May 1984, having been built in April 1984 (EG build date code). The launch colours were Diamond White, Strato Silver, Glacier Blue, Black, and Sunburst Red with the Black attracting an option price of £87.27 and the metallics £101.15. Glacier Blue was short lived being replaced by Paris blue as was Sunburst Red, which was surpassed by Rosso. At launch the June 1984 Ford Cars brochure listed the XR2 basic price as £5,731.

Early cars had striped black seat material called "Rainbow" with a grey steering wheel and dash trims, whereas later cars had blue striped "Monaco" seats with a black steering wheel and dash trim. Centre consoles also changed from the early long cassette draw with remote boot release switch to a small tray version with no remote boot release option. Boot carpet trim on early cars was grey and became mottled black on late cars. All Mk2 XR2s came as standard with 6Jx13 steel wheels with trims unless the Pepperpot alloys option was ticked.

Exterior

The Sunburst Red bodywork is well preserved and quite original throughout, with only a few discreet areas having ever been re-painted. As with most original paint cars of a certain vintage there are some blemishes to report. There are no scuffs or scrapes but imperfections can be found to most panels. Pleasingly the bumpers, lights, and driving lamps are all free from any marks or wear. The supplying dealer number plates are still present.

Interior

The classic interior is also very original. The factory cassette radio is still in place and no additional speakers have ever been fitted in the door cards or parcel shelf – quite a feat for an eighties hot hatch! The seats are trimmed in black cloth with coloured pinstripes, as are the door trims. Given the mileage of 92k the seats have worn particularly well, with only some expected wear to the driver’s upper bolster worthy of note. The dash remains in perfect condition and commonly worn items like the steering wheel and gear knob still present extremely well. Lifting the rear hatch you’ll find a clean load compartment with the alloy spare wheel and jack located neatly beneath the removable floor panels.

ENGINE & TRANSMISSION

The Mk2 XR2 was fitted with the same 1.6-litre CVH engine as used in the Mk3 Escort XR3. Earlier models such as this one were fitted with a variant that boasted a higher power output of 96hp due to its square top Webber 32/34 DFT carburettor. On first turn of the key the car fires quickly into life and idles up to temperature smoothly. Despite its modest performance figures the XR2 still provides an engaging analogue drive with plenty of eighties charm. The car will be freshly serviced and MOT’d prior to sale for the new keeper’s piece of mind.

WHEELS, TYRES & BRAKES

The 13-inch Pepperpot alloys were a factory option over the standard wheel trims. These wheels are original to the car but appear almost new all round, with no unsightly curb marking or age-related wear to speak of. They are shod in a matching set of 185/60 R13 Falken Ziex tyres all with plenty of tread remaining.

History File

The XR2 was first registered in October 1984; it was supplied new by Clark’s Motors in Somerset. Amazingly the original bill of sale, Clark’s tax disc holder and original registration document are still present in the paperwork; the Clark’s dealer number plates are also retained with the vehicle. The History File is complete with the dealer-supplied book pack, owner’s manual, invoices and plenty of past MOT certificates. A full inspection, fresh service and MOT will be carried out prior to sale for the new keeper’s piece of mind.

Whilst Petrol Face Ltd. ("we") attempt to make sure that the information contained in this website is accurate and complete, we are aware that some errors and omissions may occur from time to time. We are not able therefore, to guarantee the accuracy of that information and cannot accept liability for loss or damage arising from misleading information or for any reliance on which you may place on the information contained in this website. We highly recommend that you examine the vehicle to check the accuracy of the information supplied. If you have any queries with regard to any information on our website, please contact us at sales@4starclassics.com. This disclaimer does not affect your statutory rights.